Wooster, Ohio, United States
I am currently completing a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, with the long-term plan of obtaining a biology-focused PhD to work in disease research and pre-clinical drug development.
- Fostered a positive living environment for over 50 students in residence halls by hosting open-door hours, leading floor meetings, and engaging in regular conversation with each resident - Executed 4+ educational, volunteer, and social programs per semester to prompt community building and personal growth; events were creatively and intentionally designed based on observed floor trends - Enforced college policies and procedures regarding substance abuse, quiet hours, property damage, and other community standards. Attended many trainings to effectively do so - Developed equitable recruitment and training protocols for residential life staff
- Researched and curated accurate resources on diverse spiritual traditions and practices to construct inclusive sacred spaces, support students from all backgrounds, and develop programs promoting religious literacy - Co-Lead the department following the departure of the campus chaplain by planning religious events and observances, interviewing candidates, hiring interns, and structuring onboarding activities
- Executed behavioral protocols utilizing the Morris Water Maze, Barnes Maze, and Fear Conditioning Chamber - Transferred animals and maintained housing conditions in rodent laboratories to ensure data accuracy and collection efficiency. Worked with both mice and rat models - Conducted a study to examine the effect of yoga on ADHD by gathering participants, administering surveys, running EEG methodology, and assisting with the yoga and exercise condition sessions
Taught 60 students about fluorescence microscopy by delivering a presentation and walking students through 3 different activities. I worked to make the session accessible for all students - including those with visual/auditory impairments and other disabilities. My efforts aimed to empower high school students to pursue STEM careers through hands-on learning and by relaying my personal experiences.
I had the honor of participating in the Modeling the Dynamics of Biological Systems REU. Here, I worked in the Marsden lab and conducted research on infantile epilepsy. My main goal was to refine zebrafish as a model for CYFIP2-driven epilepsy by (1) utilizing lightsheet microscopy to identify brain regions contributing to CYFIP2 mutant seizure susceptibility and (2) training the deep-learning platform SLEAP to reliably track stage-specific seizure behavior. This dual methodology bridges the gap between observable behavior and its neural causes, laying a foundation to discover underlying mechanisms and novel treatments. I also had the opportunity to participate in a symposium, engage in a journal club, learn in a microscopy short-course, and assist with many other research projects in the Marsden Lab.
- Performed a bibliometric analysis using Web of Science to synthesize research on Spinal Muscular Atrophy - Constructed figures, a poster, and a video presentation to summarize SMA research
- Developed training plans to teach swimming techniques to adults and children of all ages and skill levels - Managed the aquatic facility by directing lifeguards, interacting with patrons, and monitoring chemical balances - Upheld safety standards by closely watching the pool and providing first aid in case of emergency; Developed resilience and calm decision-making in moments of crisis